I think it is only fair to show that while many in the U.S. government do not feel that our military spending is adequate for the role the U.S. military will be required to play, it is very large indeed compared to the amounts spent in other countries. However, that is only true in the 'total dollar amount' sense. In reference to military spending in comparison to GNP, it is smaller than other nations.

There is a lot of argument about this very subject. Many Americans feel that to have a strong defense is to be safe and secure even if it is never used. Others feel that the money could be better served inside our borders on economic means.

I think 9-11 changed a lot of people's thinking along these lines and many would now like to see more money go to local governments for homeland defense (protecting ourselves and internal security) rather than a military that would be used outside our borders.

>>http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2003/17447.htm
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>Thanks: that is an interesting reference.